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The Water Supply (Water Quality) (Scotland) Regulations 2001 (Superseded)

These are the main regulations that set drinking water standards in Scotland and require Scottish Water to take and analyse samples in a specified manner.

The Regulations mirror the requirements of the European Union Council Directive 98/83/EC of 3 November 1998 on the quality of water intended for human consumption.

  • The Regulations came into force on 25 December 2003.
  • Wholesomeness is defined by setting numerical standards for relevant parameters.
  • The supply zone is defined as the basic unit for quality monitoring.
  • Water authorities are required to monitor the quality of their supplies.
  • Detailed sampling requirements are specified for samples taken at taps within zones, at service reservoirs and at water treatment works.
  • Authorised Departures may be granted temporarily where the water is not of the required quality.
  • Scottish Water must publish an annual report and keep a public register of water quality in its area.

For the full regulations, click the link: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ssi/2001/207/contents/made